Mark Kimble, spokesman for the congresswoman, told the Associated Press that Giffords has been walking on her own for the first time since she began using a cane this past June. He added that Giffords is writing again with her left hand.

Ron Barber, an aide to Giffords, said in a Monday meeting with the Democrats of Greater Tucson that Giffords is rapidly recovering but she has not yet decided whether she will seek a fourth term in 2012. Barber suggested that Giffords will determine if she will run or not when "the time is right."

Barber said she is, “on a path to full recovery – I am certain about that.” He also argued that her cognitive abilities are up 100 percent, but added that from his perspective her cognitive abilities are up 150 percent stating, “that’s how I see it.”

Giffords sustained a wound to her head when she was shot in the head at an Arizona supermarket last January. Six others died due to the gunshots, including another Giffords aide.

Barber himself was shot and has sustained injures due to the attack. Besides Giffords, Barber was the worst wounded in the attack and continues to use a cane as he recovers.